At the 2017 Simbang Gabi at the Gesu, I spotted on 3 separate nights senior managers of the Coca Cola company, colleagues who wielded policy influence. It triggered memories of the past where the season was driving revenues for the beverage company.
On the 8th night reflection, Fr. P. Pojol reminded us that in this season, amidst the darkness, there is "I" to flicker a light to dispel darkness and "us" to fire hope. When the "I" becomes "us", it sparks hope. Where tenderness will prevail and the mighty will fall.
Quoting Pope Francis' revolution of tenderness, I paraphrase, "What is tenderness? It is not a weakness, it is fortitude (courage in pain or misery), it is the path of solidarity, the path of humility. The more powerful you are, the more your actions will have an impact on people, the more responsible you are to act humbly. If you don't, your power will ruin you and you will ruin the other."
Such simple yet profound, relevant and powerful message in today's corporate and political landscape and on a personal level.
A fitting 9th mass ending the novena, Fr. Manoling Francisco expounded on Mary's virtues of courage and faith when she said to angel Gabriel, "Be it done to me according to thy word." She took the risk even if meant death by stoning and had faith believing without a doubt. She was Christ's bearer.
Closing the theme of "Lights for Peace and Hope," we are asked to be Christ bearers too, facing adversities with courage and faith. We can be the light of Peace and Hope.
The Ateneo Chambers Choir sung traditional Christmas songs with a professional prayerful touch closing the 2017 Simbang Gabi making us better prepared for the waiting for the promise of redemption to be delivered on Christmas day.
The homily and the singing already set us up for rejoicing and joy of Christmas.
2017 Simbang Gabi impels us to act to light for peace and hope.
Merry Christmas!
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